HD in HD Behind the Growth of Plaid with Zach Perret
Dec 3, 2024
Zach Perret, Co-founder and CEO of Plaid, shares his journey from a small North Carolina town to Silicon Valley's fintech scene. He discusses how his childhood and experiences at Duke University fueled his passion for innovation and inclusivity. The conversation dives into a pivotal moment when a key investor pulled out, showcasing the power of networking. Zach also highlights leadership lessons learned during rapid growth, fundraising hurdles, and the emotional complexities surrounding acquisitions in the tech industry.
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Rural upbringing
- Zach Perret grew up in a small, rural North Carolina town known for its fast-food restaurants.
- Ironically, he never ate fast food, preferring vegetables.
Early influences
- As a nerdy kid, Zach Perret's worldview was shaped by early science fiction, especially Heinlein.
- Later, he spent a lot of time online, playing Diablo 2.
Paternal influence
- Zach Perret's father, a symphony conductor, had a unique work ethic, blurring the lines between work and leisure.
- This influenced Zach's perspective on work-life balance.